Thailand & Laos: Enchanting Family Expedition for Kids

📍 Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport – Anantara Riverside Bangkok (43.7 km): 49 min

Arrive in Bangkok, meet with EXO Travel guide and transfer to hotel to check in. 

Overnight in Bangkok

Inclusions:

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up at 08:00. Look beyond the crowded streets of the metropolis and discover a more local side of Bangkok. Take advantage of the city’s network of public transportation for a full day excursion of the capital, seeing the main sites but also getting a closer look at the traditions and lifestyles of the Thai people.
    
The day’s adventure begins with a ride on the city’s Skytrain. This elevated train line is busy in the morning with business people and school kids who avoid the traffic of the streets for a faster, air-conditioned commute. Disembark near the Chao Phraya River and board a public boat, another popular commuter option. Enjoy the views of the city’s skyline as it passes by and see houses precariously balanced on stilts along the river’s edge.

The boat stops near the iconic Wat Pho and Grand Palace. Spend the remainder of the morning exploring these two remarkable sites, learning about the country’s regal history and of the deep-rooted spiritual traditions of its people. 

Then hop aboard a tuk tuk through the Bangkok’s old town and make a stop right in front at the Museum Siam, a museum of education which visitors can learn about the history of Siam, the people of Siam and their relationship with neighboring countries. Spend a bit of time here to enjoy and educate yourself.

Return to the hotel by private transportation. 

Overnight in Bangkok

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Bangkok - Ayutthaya (80.7 km): 1.15 hrs

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up at 07:00. Explore Thailand's ancient capital and cultural heartlands by train, boat, and tuk-tuk with this absorbing Ayutthaya day trip. The day begins with a morning train ride, approximately 1.20 hours, from Bangkok to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Ayutthaya, passing through verdant countryside and lush paddy fields. Having arrived in Ayutthaya, which dates to the 14th Century, the morning is spent exploring the breathtaking temple-studded landscape by a unique Kermit tuk-tuk, visiting the highlighted temples of the city. 

See majestic Wat Yai Chaimongkol, impressive Wat Phra Srisanphet and Wat Mahathat, where the Buddha face is naturally emerged out of the tree. Learn about the history of Ayutthaya, which was once the largest city in the world. Hear the stories of its glory days and how it was eventually brought down by invading forces from Myanmar. 

In between temples visits, get a taste of local life with a visit to a vibrant market. Take an interesting walk through the town's Muslim Quarter which offers the opportunity to sample an unusual local delicacy, candy floss roti. 

After lunch at a local restaurant, the Ayutthaya day trip continues with a leisurely long-tail boat ride, approximately one hour, on the river around Ayutthaya island. This offers the chance to see more of the historic sites from a different perspective. 

Return to Bangkok by private van. 

Overnight in Bangkok

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Anantara Riverside Bangkok - Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (43.7 km): 49 min Chiang Mai Airport – Yaang Come Village (2.7 km): 10 min

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Bangkok Airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. 

Upon arrival at Chiang Mai Airport, be met by your guide and transferred to the hotel.

Start the afternoon with a visit to Wat Umong Temple. The temple’s full name is Wat Umong Suan Phutthatham, which translates to “Temple of the tunnels and Buddha Dhamma garden”. A number of tunnels dug out of a mound contains shrines with Buddha images, where devotees can pay their respect to the Buddha. The large, shady temple grounds are often filled with the sounds of monks’ chanting. The temple’s setting in a forested area with a natural lake makes Wat Umong an excellent place for meditation.

Continue by private van up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most famous landmark of Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand’s most important temple. Situated on a mountain rising high above the city, this sacred pagoda offers fabulous views of Chiang Mai and its surroundings. Walk up the stairs to see the exquisite gilded stupa and learn about Thai Buddhist beliefs.

Return to the hotel by private van. 

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, you will be picked up at 08.00. Discover the many facets of Chiang Mai. Spend a day exploring the town’s main monuments and many lesser known sites, traveling by local transport for a more authentic experience.

Set off on a songtaew, a local pick-up truck taxi (Known as Rot Daeng in Chiang Mai translated to red car), and drive to Wat Gatekaram for a glimpse into a local neighbourhood. Venture through the small alleyways of this trading community, stopping to see old temples and a local market. Then venture away from the city’s centre to Wiang Kum Kam, a ‘lost civilization’ wiped out by a flood 200 years ago. Hop on a bike to explore the ancient ruins which are scattered about the rural fields. See traces of the past while pedalling slowly through the site. The museum there is a real eye into this lost civilization. Take some time to understand this history. (Note: Bike for very young kids is subject to availability.) 

Take a rest and board a long-tail boat for a scenic ride down the Mae Ping River. Relax and enjoy the views of riverside villages, fishermen and other boats pass by. 

Disembark near the city and have lunch at a local Thai restaurant. Then try yet another form of local transport, samlor. These pedal-powered three-wheeled trishaws used to be ubiquitous in Thailand but are slowly being replaced by motorbikes and other motorized vehicles. Move slowly through the streets toward Wat Chedi Luang. Stop to visit this spectacular pagoda, once home to a famous Emerald Buddha. 

The day ends with a tuk tuk ride to Waroros Market. Mingle among the locals and soak up the sights and smells of the fresh food and Thai spices. Then return to the hotel. 

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

Breakfast at the hotel. Take a day out with your family to enjoy an optional art day. 

Optional A: Half Day Creative Chiang Mai 

You will be picked up at either 08:30 or 13:30. Get in touch with Thailand’s creative community with this unique Chiang Mai art tour. 

Head to Nimmanhemin, a hip student district near the University of Chiang Mai (CMU). Visit the University’s Contemporary Art Gallery, a multi-level gallery that displays the works of famous local artists as well as many up-and-coming artists. Meet with one-such artist who will share their personal story as well as provide expert insight into the world of Thai modern art.

Take a break at a local café, choosing from one of the many eclectic cafés that fill the Nimmanhemin neighbourhood. Enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while people watching and learning about student life in Chiang Mai. 

Continue the arts exploration with a trip to Elephant Parade House for a hands-on activity. Paint and decorate a miniature elephant statue. Part of a worldwide organization, Elephant Parade House gets celebrities and renowned artists to paint these mini-elephants then auctions them off to raise money for elephant conservation. This fun, interactive experience supports a good cause and provides a memorable souvenir from Thailand’s creative scene. 

With a custom-made elephant in hand, the arts adventure ends with a drive back to the hotel.

Time: 08:30 – 12:00 / 13:30 - 17:00
Departure:  Tuesday - Sunday
Notes: 
CMU Art Gallery is closed on Mondays and public holidays
Please check with Chiang Mai operations as the current display at CMU.
Recommended maximum group size of 6 as the coffee shop may get crowded and seats hard to find.

Optional B: Half Day the Art and Craft of Chocolate 

You will be picked up at either 09:00 or 13:00 by private transfer to Weave Artisan Society, a creative community and space, where various local products can be explored. Here is also where your sweet chocolate day starts! 

Nestled in the community, Siamaya Chocolate Shop and Factory is one of Chiang Mai’s famous chocolate places, originally created with passion for good quality chocolates, using local ingredients sourced in the region, making the most distinct flavors that you have ever tasted. Then, upon arrival, you will be invited to immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of artisanal chocolate. Participate in a captivating 2-hour chocolate art workshop, where you will unleash your imagination and creativity, fashioning your very own uniquely designed chocolate bar. Afterward, embark on a guided tour that unveils the secrets of chocolate making, allowing you to indulge in a variety of flavors provided by the Chocolate Factory. As you bid farewell to the factory, your hands will be filled with a delightful assortment of chocolate to take back with you. 

Finally, return to your hotel in an E-Tuk Tuk, cherishing the memories of your chocolate-filled adventure.

Time: 09:00 - 13:00 / 13:00 - 17:00 
Departure: Daily 
Notes:     
Join workshop only 
Children under 5 years old are free of charge. Those over 5 years old are charged as adults. 

Free afternoon at leisure. 

Overnight in Chiang Mai

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Luang Prabang International Airport - Luang Prabang Hotel (4.8 km): 15 mins approx. Yaang Come Village - Chiang Mai Airport (2.7 km): 10 min

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and transfer to Chiang Mai Airport for the flight to Luang Prabang.

Upon arrival in Luang Prabang, be welcomed by a guide who will assist in hotel transfer. The rest of the evening will be free at leisure.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

This morning, explore the UNESCO town of Luang Prabang in a Photo Hunt & Historical Town Discovery adventure.  Visit some iconic places in the UNESCO town of Luang Prabang, while given a list of images to collect. 

The goal today will be to collect as many pictures as possible within the time allocation while having much fun together and discovering the Historical centre of Luang Prabang. 

Transportation consists of tuk tuks and/or walking, based on the areas to find. The purpose is to create a memorable moment within the family, educate on culture and history, meet local people and have fun. 

The afternoon is free at leisure. Enjoy relaxing at the hotel or choose an afternoon optional activity at the Namkhan Horse Stable Equestrian Centre. 

Early in the evening, meet the guide and head over to the Bamboo Experience Plantation and Pavilion. 

Upon arrival, receive a brief introduction about the traditional and modern uses of bamboo and its significance within Lao culture. See the bamboo weaving process and try Kamu bamboo dance, bamboo walking and crossbow shooting. Then learn how to make “khao tom”, a traditional Laotian dessert of seasoned sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves. This dessert is often given to the monks during the alms giving ceremony.

Next, participate in a unique, traditional Lao ceremony known as the Baci. The Baci is performed in celebration of important events such as weddings, births, or for welcoming guests, and is a means of expressing goodwill and good luck to others. The Lao believe that each person has 32 spirits which constitute their spiritual essence, and the Baci is the ritual used to call back any escaped spirits into the body. During the Baci, special flower trays and food treats are prepared which are then touch by the participants while a Buddhist mantra is chanted. After the chanting is completed, cotton threads are tied around the participants’ wrist whilst they receive an individual blessing. After the ceremony, sit down and enjoy an authentic Laotian dinner with bamboo themed dishes. Enjoy a dessert with the previously prepared “khao tom”. Transfer back to the hotel after a memorable experience. 

Optional Afternoon Activity: Namkhan Countryside Horse Riding 

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure at Namkhan Horse Stables & Camp. This off-the-beaten-path experience promises a half day filled with fun, especially for kids. Begin by assisting the groom staff in preparing food for the horses, while a local Hmong groom expert shares fascinating insights about Hmong Horses. He will also teach different ways on how to daily groom the ponies. Learn to craft homemade treats for the ponies before taking your first riding lessons in the riding arena. Traverse through river and forest landscapes in Hmong countryside, participate in an art and craft workshop led by local experts. Conclude with a delightful lunch. 

Time: 15:00 - 18:00
Departure: Daily
Notes: 
Private
Horse riding Max weight 65kg, Max height: 1m70

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🍗 Dinner

This morning set off for the countryside and what promises to be an unforgettable experience: a day as an organic farmer in Laos. The destination is a local organic farm: a stilted wooden farmhouse situated amid miles of emerald-green rice paddies. The farm was established by the local community after they saw an increase in destructive slash-and-burn agricultural techniques. They have banded together to develop an organic farm that not only feeds the community but also helps to educate other farmers on more sustainable growing methods. Take a walk through the organic vegetable garden with a knowledgeable farmer from the community. 

Witness the various activities taking place on the farm such as basket weaving, noodle making and sugarcane juicing. Then prepare to get dirty and join the farmers in the fields. There are 13 stages of rice production and, depending on the time of year, help as they plough, plant, harvest or thresh the rice using traditional techniques. Gain a deeper appreciation for the Lao farmers through this interactive experience. Having worked up an appetite, a selection of rice-based snacks will be served before returning to Luang Prabang at midday.

In the afternoon, it is time to experience the natural beauty of the region. Drive through the countryside outside Luang Prabang to Kuang Si waterfall, a cascading series of pools in the forest. Relax alongside the clear blue waters or opt for an active trek to the top of the falls. For further insight into the natural wonders of Laos, a stop can be made at the Asiatic Black Bear sanctuary. Located near the falls, this centre houses endangered bears rescued from poachers. The centre explains the efforts of the passionate animal lovers who are working to stop the poachers and preserve the bear’s natural habitat. Late this afternoon it is time to return to the city, driving once again through the vibrant rural landscapes that make up Laos’ countryside.

In the early evening, head to a local spot to join a team of Laotian petanque amateurs where you will be invited to join this French known sport that’s been adopted (during the colonial period) and has become well-loved by the locals here. Enjoy a game or two while snacking on Laos food. The beauty of Petanque is that, just about anybody can play it, regardless of age, strength, height, or athletic ability. It is great fun and an excellent way to interact with the Lao people. 

When the sun begins to set, be transferred to Dyen Sabai restaurant, located along the Nam Khan River. 

Experience the traditional Laotian Sin Dat barbecue also known as the ‘Lao Fondue’, tasty and family-friendly.

After dinner, you will be transferred back to the hotel.

Responsible Travel Note about the Living Land Farm:
- The Living Land is a community enterprise run by local people to support the children of poor farming families with their education and medical needs.

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch, 🍗 Dinner

Meet the guide and tuk tuk driver at the hotel for a short transfer to the Royal boat pier behind the National Museum. After a 5-minute cruise to the other side of the Mekong, you will reach the quiet village of Ban Chan, famously known for its clay pottery making. Back in the days, Ancient kings of Laos chose this village for their pottery making skills and it became the central way of life for the people. Thus, most of the houses are arranged work the clay and some houses even have their own kiln!

Now, demands are changing, and Ban Chan cannot always keep up with the demands and competitive products from neighbouring countries. By creating the Pottery House, the Lamphet Family wish not only to invite guests in their homes but also to learn and help preserve a unique handicraft, intimately linked to the past Monarch heritage.

On this tour, get a behind-the-scenes look at these ancient techniques and get an opportunity to get hands-on with the clay.  Get up close and personal as the skilled pottery makers guide in each step of the experience, a truly unique Lao cultural activity.

Once done with the masterpiece, join in a traditional Lao lunch cooked by the Lampheth family. All the ingredients come from local sources and if the season is right, it might even come from their very own organic garden (just ask!). Make sure to sample all of Luang Prabang’s traditional foods like Khaiphaen (fried river weed), grilled fish, eggplant dipping sauce, and spicy papaya salad. Guaranteed to make any stomachs happy!
Bid farewell to the hosts and teachers, return to Luang Prabang by boat and be back at the hotel by 1.30pm. The rest of the afternoon is free at leisure. 

In the early evening, pick up from the hotel and accompanied by a guide, head to an old colonial house that has been converted into a small and cosy 30-seat theatre located in a charming small lane within the city of Luang Prabang. Experience the captivating Garavek traditional storytelling, a display where local myths, legends, and folk tales come to life! Named after the 'magical bird,' Garavek enchants with an hour-long show, featuring a Khaen player (a bamboo mouth organ unique only to Laos and Northern Thailand) and an animated storyteller (spoken in English).

Overnight in Luang Prabang

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast, 🥘 Lunch

📍 Luang Prabang Hotel - Luang Prabang International Airport (4.8 km): 15 mins approx. Phuket Airport - Pullman Phuket Karon (55.6 km): 1.30 hrs

Accompanied by a guide and driver, transfer to Luang Prabang International Airport for the next part of the journey to Phuket.

Upon arrival at Phuket Airport, our local representative will assist you for private transfer by air-conditioned vehicle to the hotel.

Overnight in Phuket

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day at leisure or enjoy a day out with your family. 

Half Day Optional Activity: Meet & Greet Phuket’s Gentle Giants 

Be picked up at either 08:00 or 13:00. Enjoy a magical morning or afternoon mingling with rehabilitated Asian elephants at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. This scenic slice of paradise serves as both a sanctuary and home for elephants and forest wildlife. The visit begins with a pleasant ride down a village lane to the grounds of the sanctuary, where you will arrive at the Tree Top Reception and Observation Platform.

You will have the opportunity to meet some of the elephants, learn about their individual stories, and understand why they need protection. Then, join them on a leisurely walk through the forest. Along the way, observe their natural behavior as they engage in daily activities such as foraging, bathing, and playing in one of the three lagoons.

For animal lovers who value interactions based on respect and adoration, this is one of Thailand's most heartwarming and memorable experiences. It offers exceptional insight into the remarkable nature of elephants.
A delicious vegetarian Thai buffet lunch or dinner will be served at the Tree Top Observation Platform, where you can rest, relax, and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the sanctuary. (L/D)

Time:        08:30 – 13:00 / 13:00 – 17:00 
Departure:    Daily
Notes        
Join-in activity with a private van transfer only.
 Private transfer to the meeting point at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary (PES) office.
 For the morning program, please arrive at the meeting point no later than 09:30.
 For the afternoon program, please arrive no later than 13:30.
 From the PES office, you will switch to a shared pick-up truck which departs at 09:30 for the morning session and at 13:30 for the afternoon session.
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is closed annually on 13 April for the Songkran holiday.
The afternoon program includes an early dinner featuring a vegetarian Thai buffet.
No more feeding interactions starting from 01 April 2026 and will be replaced with the new elephant hospital experience, allowing guests to witness the veterinary work.
 

Evening Optional Activity: Carnival Phuket the Magical Night

This evening, be picked up at 17:00 – 17:30 (depending on your hotel’s location) and transferred to this uniquely colorful fun themed park, Carnival Magic Phuket, one of the largest parks in Phuket. The attraction features various kinds of entertaining activities, domes, and stores, displayed in Thai style and culture. Enjoy every nook and corner of the park, and be engaged at some interactive zones, even the “Toylet” (originally from the word ‘toilet’, featuring unique toilets decorated with many colors and own identify. With innovative technology, the kids would be enjoying communicating with AI elephants in the toilet, for example. Then, dine in at an elegant banquet hall “The Bird of Paradise”, offering different types of cuisines, both Thai and international. 

Now, it is time for the highlight of the night. Join the Carnival Parade at the park ground, where the music is echoed around, and join in the dance with all people visiting from around the globe. See a beautiful Carnival Parade show in the theatre, all newly unique concepts, which are not seen anywhere else in Thailand. After the show, go explore the Kingdom of Lights, and be amazed by beautiful lighting, such as an illuminated Thai royal barge float, and glittering peacocks, etc. This illumination park will definitely light up your fantasy world with positivity and cheer.

This is the theme park where it is worth coming to relax and release your stress. It is one of the best places to spend the holiday time with your family that will imprint on your memory about Thailand. (D)

Time: Buffet Dinner at 18:00 – 20:30
           Showtime at 20:30 – 21:15
Departure: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday
Notes:
Children are charged as adult price
Extra charge for Royal Seat USD 15

Overnight in Phuket

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast

📍 Pullman Phuket Karon – Phuket Airport (55.6 km): 1.30 hrs

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and depart Phuket for Bangkok Airport to fly back home. 

Inclusions:

☕ Breakfast